Companion Animals

Quittor in Horses: Welfare and Management of This Rare Foot Condition

Welfare guide to quittor in horses -- a deep-seated foot infection causing chronic lameness and pain.

Key Facts

Quittor is an infection of the collateral cartilage of the foot -- a rare but serious welfare condition
It most commonly affects draught breeds and working horses but can occur in any horse
The infection tracks through the cartilage and erupts through sinuses in the coronary band
Affected horses are severely lame -- the infection causes intense local pain and swelling
Without treatment, the condition is progressive and causes permanent structural damage
Surgical removal of the infected cartilage is the definitive treatment -- specialised farriery and post-operative care are essential
Prognosis with prompt surgical treatment is reasonable but many horses are left with some degree of lameness
Prevention is difficult -- it typically follows penetrating foot injuries or direct trauma to the coronary band

Welfare Significance

Quittor causes intense chronic foot pain that profoundly impairs welfare. The deep infection in a closed space causes unrelieved pain with every step. Prompt surgical intervention prevents progressive destruction and offers the best welfare outcome. Horses with this condition require expert veterinary and farriery input throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary assessment immediately for any horse with discharging sinuses at the coronary band
Work with both a vet and a specialist farrier for quittor management -- both are essential
Manage post-operative feet carefully -- dressings and restricted activity are both welfare and healing requirements
Provide adequate analgesia throughout the treatment period -- do not underestimate pain levels